Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Russia in 7 Days

  • Day 1: Explore Moscow
    Arrive at Domodedovo International Airport
    Travel to Moscow city center (45 minutes, $15 by taxi)

    Begin your journey in Moscow by exploring the Kremlin, a historic fortified complex at the heart of the city. Marvel at the stunning architectural brilliance of the St. Basil's Cathedral, and take a stroll at the beautiful Alexander Garden. End the day with a family-friendly visit to the Moscow Circus.

  • Day 2: Discover St. Petersburg
    Travel from Moscow to St. Petersburg (3.5 hours, $45 by train)
    Visit Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace (2.5 hours)

    The Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace is an iconic destination showcasing an impressive collection of art and antiquities, dating back to the stone age. Conclude the day with a serene boat ride along the city's rivers and channels.

  • Day 3: Glimpse the History of Kazan
    Travel from St. Petersburg to Kazan (2 hours, $30 by flight)
    Visit Kazan Kremlin (2 hours)

    Explore the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO world heritage site and the most popular tourist attraction in Kazan. Admire the magnificent architecture of the Qolşärif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral before sampling some Tatar delicacies at a traditional restaurant.

  • Day 4: Sightseeing in Sochi
    Travel from Kazan to Sochi (4 hours, $60 by flight)
    Stroll at Sochi Arboretum (2 hours)

    Start the day with a relaxing stroll at the Sochi Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden filled with exotic plants and flowers. Immerse yourself in local history at the Agura Waterfalls and end the day with a family-friendly visit to the Sochi Dolphinarium.

  • Day 5: Explore the Beauty of the Red Square
    Travel from Sochi to Moscow (2 hours, $30 by flight)
    Visit Red Square (2 hours)

    Visit the heart of Moscow - the famous Red Square flanked by the majestic St. Basil's Cathedral and the State Historical Museum. Cross the bridge for a river view of the Kremlin while walking through Zaryadye Park. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Moscow Zoo with your family.

  • Day 6: Enjoy the Fascinating Treasures of Golden Ring
    Travel from Moscow to Suzdal (3 hours, $50 by train)
    Visit Suzdal Monastery of the Deposition (2 hours)

    Start the day with a visit to the Suzdal Monastery of the Deposition, a historic site where you can experience authentic Russian Orthodox culture. Learn about traditional Russian architecture at the Spaso-Efimiev Monastery Museum. End the day with a family-friendly trip to the Suzdal Toy Museum where you can find many traditional and iconic toys of Russia.

  • Day 7: Relax at Kurshskaya Spit
    Travel from Suzdal to Curonian Spit (12 hours, $120 by train)
    Visit Curonian Spit National Park (2 hours)

    Wrap up your journey with a peaceful visit to the Curonian Spit National Park and soak up the sun on the scenic beaches at Kurshskaya Spit. You can also rent a bike to explore the area, or relax and take in the stunning views from a comfortable retreat.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kremlin (3 hours, $18)
  • St. Basil's Cathedral (1 hour, $6)
  • Moscow Circus (2 hours, $35)
  • Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace (2.5 hours, $20)
  • Kazan Kremlin (2 hours, $12)
  • Sochi Arboretum (2 hours, $8)
  • Agura Waterfalls (3 hours, $12)
  • Sochi Dolphinarium (2 hours, $20)
  • Red Square (2 hours, $10)
  • Moscow Zoo (4 hours, $32)
  • Suzdal Monastery of the Deposition (2 hours, $6)
  • Spaso-Efimiev Monastery Museum (2 hours, $10)
  • Suzdal Toy Museum (1 hour, $8)
  • Curonian Spit National Park (2 hours, $15)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $222

Transportation

During your trip, you'll need to rely on air and train travel to get around in Russia. Stay safe and comfortable by booking reliable travel operators in advance. For short-distance travel, we recommend taxis, while trains are ideal for longer journeys. On average, domestic flights cost around $35-$60, while train tickets range from $12-$50 depending on the class and distance.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore the Golden Ring region, which includes ancient cities like Vladimir and Sergiev Posad. If you have less time, you may consider skipping Sochi and limiting your itinerary to Moscow and St. Petersburg. Keep in mind that it's essential to respect the cultural norms and customs of each region and learn some basics of the Russian language to help you communicate with locals.

Airports

Travelers arriving in Russia from international destinations will usually land at the Moscow Domodedovo International Airport (DME), located around 42 km southeast of Moscow city center. Likewise, the Sochi International Airport (AER) and the Moscow Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) are convenient airports to visit Kazan, Sochi, and St. Petersburg.

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